Maine is a fairly good state for off grid living, although the climate tends to be fairly harsh. Generally speaking, people who live off the grid in Maine are already familiar with the local climate and they couldn’t imagine living off the grid in any other state. Maine has basically everything that you would need for off grid living, except the climate, which is arguably the biggest hurdle you will come across while living off the grid in this state.
The best places to live off the grid in Maine are the ones where the climate is relatively mild when compared to the northern parts of the state. Generally speaking the best counties for off grid living are Cumberland County, York County, Penobscot County, Aroostook County, Oxford County, and Franklin County.
The best part about this state is that it has a lot of untouched wilderness, so if you love nature then you will feel at home. On the other hand, if you come from the southern parts of the country then you will definitely remember your first winter in Maine for the rest of your life. In the southern parts of the state, the climate is fairly humid, and in the northern parts of the state, the climate tends to be fairly cold.
As your biggest challenge with living off the grid in this state will be the winters you have to either get used to chopping firewood or have some spare money to buy firewood. The last thing you would want in this state is to be stuck in a remote location due to snowfall and without firewood. If you want more information about off grid living in this state then check out my recent article Off grid living Maine ( The Pine Tree State ).
Best Places To Live Off The Grid In Maine
Maine offers some of the most picturesque and inviting places to live off the grid. The state’s rugged coastline, dense forests, and pristine lakes create an idyllic backdrop for a self-sustaining lifestyle. Areas such as Hancock County and Washington County, located along the stunning Downeast region, provide a harmonious blend of natural beauty and seclusion. The Western Lakes and Mountains region, encompassing counties like Oxford and Franklin, offers serene landscapes with ample opportunities for outdoor activities and sustainable living. Additionally, Aroostook County in northern Maine presents vast open spaces, fertile farmland, and a strong sense of community.
Cumberland County
Cumberland County is located in the southern part of the state, and it has access to the ocean. Most people who live in this state choose this county, and a lot of people also live off the grid here. The population density is the highest in the entire state, this county is an extremely good one for living off the grid due to its size and low cost of the property. Currently, there are around 290k people living in an area of 1,217 sq mi, so you will have no problem finding suitable land for off grid living. If you want to know how to build a house off the grid then check out my recent article Building a house off the grid ( In 10 Steps ).
York County
York County is located in the southern tip of Maine, and this is an excellent place for off grid living mostly due to the local climate. The climate in York County is milder than in the rest of the state, the growing period is one of the longest in the state, and winters are not that brutal. Currently, there are around 200k people living in an area of 1,271 sq mi and the best places for living off the grid in this county are in the southern parts.
Penobscot County
Penobscot County is located in the center of Maine, and it is a relatively large county. The climate is different in the southern and in northern parts of the county, and your best options for off grid living will be in the southern parts of the county. Currently, there are around 150k people living in an area of 3,556 sq mi, which means that the price of land is relatively low although the cost of living in the low population density areas tends to be somewhat high.
Aroostook County
Aroostook County is located in the northern part of the state, which means that the winters tend to be extremely brutal. Although Aroostook County is not an ideal place for off grid living, it is still one of the best ones if you are on a tight budget. Due to the massive size of the county, you will have no problem finding land dirt cheap, especially as there are only around 70k people living in an area of 6,829 sq mi. Most people who live off the grid in this state do not use any electricity, for more information check out my recent article How to live without electricity? ( In 8 Steps ).
Oxford County
Oxford County is located in the southwestern part of the state which means that the climate is more favorable for off grid living. There are a lot of people living either completely off the grid or in a semi-off-grid way in this county. The price of land is relatively cheap and so is the cost of living, as there are only around 58k people living in an area of 2,175 sq mi.
Franklin County
Franklin County is located in the western part of the state, and although not the best when it comes to off grid living, but there are slim pickings in this state. The main reason why this county is one of the better ones for off grid living is due to the low cost of housing and the relatively low cost of living. Currently, there are around 30k people living in an area of 1,744 sq mi, and your best options for off grid living are in the southern parts of the county.
Key Takeaways
- Maine’s vast forests, lakes, and coastline provide access to abundant natural resources, making it an attractive destination for off-grid living. Residents can tap into renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, as well as engage in activities such as fishing, hunting, and foraging to support a self-sufficient lifestyle.
- Maine is home to a number of off-grid communities and individuals who embrace sustainable living practices. These communities provide a supportive network for knowledge sharing, resource exchange, and a sense of community. Engaging with these communities can offer valuable insights and support for those transitioning to an off-grid lifestyle.
- Maine’s stunning landscapes, including its picturesque coastlines, lush forests, and rugged mountains, offer a captivating backdrop for off-grid living. The state’s beauty and tranquility allow for a deeper connection with nature, outdoor activities, and a sense of peace and solitude that many seek in an off-grid lifestyle.